Though we still have snow on the ground here in Utah, I can feel the seasons starting to change in my bones. The air is definitely still frigid, but there’s now a slight warmness to the air. While I did my best to clean out my garden last fall, there’s still a lot of work to do to get ready for spring planting. If you don’t have feet of snow to combat, I recommend getting started on these spring garden cleaning projects just as soon as it starts warming up. You’ll feel better and your garden will be in the best of shape after you tackle these spring cleaning projects for your garden!
Pick Up Stems and Dead Plant Matter
Though you may have tackled this project in the fall, it’s still a good idea to go over things again come Spring. To keep any beneficial insects that may be calling your dead plant matter home, toss your stems and other plant material like leaves loosely into your compost bin. That way, you can get your garden cleaned up without harming any of those good bugs!
Weed…Always Weed
It’s always a good idea to weed your garden before those pesky weeds come sprouting through your soil with full force. Take some time this spring to remove any dead weeds you may have missed in the Fall. Though you may be tempted, it’s never a good idea to compost weeds. Their seeds will come back to haunt you later on and no gardener wants that!
Add A Layer Of Mulch
Though it may be tempting to cover your soil with a layer of mulch just as soon as you’ve finished cleaning up, it’s best to wait until temperatures hit at least 50 degrees pretty consistently. It’s also best to wait to mulch until the soil has completely dried.
Prune…But Do So With Care
If you have any perennial flowers or bushes, it’s important to prune before the growing season begins. While it’s important to prune your plants, it’s important to do so with care. Don’t disturb cocoons because these kinds of bugs are so beneficial to your garden. However, ornamental grasses should ALWAYS be cut back ASAP so they look good all year.
What About Your Rose Bushes?
Naturally, your rose bushes are probably looking a little worse for the wear after winter. But you can have them back to their former glory in no time at all! Prune and remove any dead flowers or other material from your rose bushes. The removal of those dead leaves and flowers will let your plant know that warm weather is coming. Kind of like an alarm clock.
Once you are done cleaning, you can use some spring gardening ideas like this one:
Got the berries pruned in February and the crocuses and daffodils are coming up. Can’t wait for full spring! Thanks for the tips!
You’re welcome! Glad you’re staying on top of your gardening!
Happy to help! 🙂
A well-detailed article, thanks for sharing this one.
Great tips! I use leaf blowers to rake up the leaves, however, your tip seems awesome. Thanks for sharing.